This is an old technical article and the information may be outdated. Please contact certification@tcodevelopment.com with any questions regarding the information in this article.
Data center products are increasingly part of organizations’ IT infrastructure. Just like any other IT product, these products are connected to sustainability issues throughout the supply chain, with negative impacts on both human health and the environment. TCO Development is now designing criteria for data centers, that will help put more sustainable products on the market.
A growing purchaser demand is another reason why this is a natural step to take. The new product area will allow purchasers to take a more holistic view of TCO Certified as part of their sustainable IT focus.
The data center package will be part of TCO Certified, generation 8. The majority of the criteria is the same as the current product categories. The certification drives responsibility and transparency in the supply chain and reduces or eliminates the use of hazardous substances in IT products, covering heavy metals, halogens, non-halogenated flame retardants and plasticizers. Circular solutions are enabled through criteria focusing on product durability, repairability, and upgradeability. Certified products must be energy efficient. TCO Certified also helps purchasing organizations contribute to national and global sustainability goals.
Next steps and timeline
July 1: The pre-draft is released. It will be open for comment until August 12. The pre-draft contains intended criteria and product definitions.
September 2019: The official draft is released, and open for comment until the end of November. You will have the opportunity to contribute your comments to our team, both online and in person. The official draft contains criteria and product definitions, including test and verification methods.
December 2019: TCO Certified, generation 8 for network equipment, storage products and servers will be published. From the release date, brand owners can apply for product certification.
Upcoming dates to watch
| July 1 - Aug | Pre Draft criteria open for comment. We welcome your input. |
| August - Sep | Review of comments draft 1, and any adjustments to the criteria are made. |
| Sep - Nov | Official Draft criteria open for comment. We welcome your input. |
| Nov - Dec | Review of all comments draft 2, and any adjustments to the criteria are made. |
| December | TCO Certified, generation 8, datacenter package is published. Industry can apply for product certification. |